The first step to planning your Hawaiian wedding is selecting which of the main islands will kick off your happily ever after. The truth is, each island offers something completely different, so it’s important to evaluate your own vision, budget, and the physical needs of your wedding day! Read below for a few tips we gathered from our island-hopping that will hopefully shed insight into your big decision.
Maui
Maui was a highlight of the trip for our team - a verdant, highly creative island where one can still find traces of the old-school, bohemian charm it has always been known for. It is perhaps the island with the most diversity in regards to nature and microclimates, but also offers a wide variety of luxury resorts and incredible, industry-recognized vendors who are centrally located to make it as easy as possible to hire them for your wedding day.
Oahu
Oahu is Hawaii’s main island and hosts the city of Honolulu, the state’s most buzzing metro area. For brides looking to accommodate a larger, more extravagant wedding without complications, this is the island we recommend. The Honolulu airport is an easy landing spot for international guests, and just outside of the city you will still find long stretches of beach with fabulous surf. Waikiki is lined with four star resorts and many of Hawaii’s leading vendors call this island home, making it easily accessible for them even during busy weekends.
The Big Island
The biggest isle of Hawaii, Big Island is an incredible vast landscape of microclimates, ranging from verdant green hillsides to black lava fields. The island hosts many volcanoes - both snowy and actively spouting lava - as well as the renowned Mauna Kea Observatory, where visitors can enjoy exceptional stargazing. Most of The Big Island’s resorts can be found on the west coast near Kona and have been made popular for their coral reefs and quiet beaches.
Kauai
Often called “The Garden Isle,” Kauai is well known as Hawaii’s most lush and tropical island. Appealing to athletic travellers from all over the globe, this island offers no shortage of outdoor activities including hiking, ziplining, and sunset cruises along the Na Pali Coast. Nearly half of Kauai’s landmass is comprised of nature reserves, state parks, and botanical gardens, making it an attractive choice for adventurous couples who long for a wedding with a view. The North Shore is the most popular spot for destination weddings and elopements - offering luxe resorts and private villas that are perfect for hosting an intimate reception encapsulated by crystal beaches and verdant mountaintops.